Bae System is thrilled that Saudi Arabia is increasingly interested in the Eurofighter program. Probably the order of 48 aircraft will regain vigor favoring the production of the aircraft. The new perspective was anticipated during the visit to London of the heir to the Saudi throne Mohammed bin Salman. In fact, a memorandum of understanding was signed between Riyadh and the British government confirming the plans for the future purchase of the fighters. "Today's news is a positive step towards concluding a contract for our valued partner," said Bae Executive Director Charles Woodburn. "We are committed to supporting the kingdom as it is modernizing its armed forces and developing its industrial capacity," he added. The memorandum of understanding comes at a crucial time for Bae. The largest defense contractor in Europe has cut jobs and slowed production of Eurofighter Typhoon as many Western countries switch to new generation aircraft, such as the F35. The memorandum signed today follows an agreement for the possible purchase of 72 aircraft signed by Riyadh in 2005. Expectations for a new order have dropped in recent years, due to the oil price crisis that has hit since the second half 'of 2014 the Gulf countries and in particular Saudi Arabia. "We have taken a fundamental step towards finalizing another order for Typhoon jets that will increase safety in the Middle East and promote industry and UK employment in our unrivaled aerospace sector," said the secretary. to the British Defense, Gavin Williamson quoted in the UK press. A possible contract between Bae and Saudi Arabia could reach a value of 8 billion pounds (11 billion dollars), considering that a Eurofighter Typhoon aircraft has a list price of 130 million pounds (180 million dollars) to which we must add approximately £ 40 million ($ 55 million) for training and support services. Last November, Bae signed an agreement for 24 airplanes with Qatar, Riyadh's main rival in the Gulf and the subject of an economic and diplomatic embargo since 5 June 2017, which involves the Emirates, Bahrain and Egypt together with the Saudi kingdom.
